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Ring in the New Year in Tokyo

Japan, Asia

Tokyo New Years Eve Fireworks

One of the best places to celebrate the start of a new year is undoubtedly Tokyo in Japan - you’ll get to take part in festivities for not just one day but for an entire week!

Japan’s new year celebrations start from 29th December and continue until 4th January. To enjoy a cultural experience the best spots to celebrate the new year in Tokyo is at Meiji Shrine or at Zoji-ji Temple where a monk rings the bell 108 times to denote the arrival of new year but if you like crowds and the party vibe, then head to Shibuya Crossing and partake in the countdown party - unquestionably one of the best outdoor New Year parties in the world.

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Courtney McCormack

Courtney McCormack

House of Travel Morrinsville

Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.

Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.

With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.

I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.

Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.


Courtney

Louise Stephens

Louise Stephens

House of Travel Christchurch City

With over 26 years in various roles in the travel industry, Louise's international knowledge and experience is wide-ranging and her logistical and organizational skills are exceptional. 

Louise loves being able to create packages and experiences for clients and then deliver them onsite to see them enjoying the experiences beyond their expectations. Louise has been a part of the team that have taken New Zealand Supporters to multiple Commonwealth Games and Olympics along with Rugby and Netball World Cups.

While sports travel is still Louie's first love, over the past three years she has worked more in our Conference Management side of HOT Events. Working alongside the team in managing corporate conferences covering all aspects from destination research and contracting, through to registration administration and onsite event management. 

When not talking sport at the desk, Louise is off being active - taking her two dogs (and husband) for long walks and runs in the stunning hills around Christchurch. 

Favourite place to visit: Switzerland
Next place on the list to visit: Canada

Louise
Josephine Perera

Josephine Perera

House of Travel Masterton


Having been with House of Travel for 13 years I really enjoy how even after all this time every day is different. I can still find new destinations to learn about and expand on my knowledge through travel I have booked. Hearing about how my client’s travels went and what they experienced is always a highlight!

I encourage clients to keep in touch throughout their trip as I love receiving a photo now and then to see where their adventures are taking them. To me it's not just a holiday or a travel experience we are booking, it's memories we are helping create that will last you a lifetime.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain.

So don't wait, get in touch to plan your next big adventure today!


Josephine 

Gavin Rasikaran

Gavin Rasikaran

House of Travel Auckland City

I'm Gavin Rasikaran, your dedicated travel expert with a passion for exploring the world and a commitment to making your travel dreams a reality.

With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of helping countless clients embark on unforgettable journeys to destinations near and far.

When it comes to planning an International trip, be it just one destination or an around the world journey, it can all become overwhelming and daunting. Together with you, I will help you plan a perfect holiday taking the stress away, personalised to you.

Gavin

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Ring in the New Year in Tokyo